Student uses access card
to enter secure building.
Security Systems
Security Systems serves as the public safety answering point for the University and Medical Center Safety and Security operations. Both emergency and non-emergency police and public safety requests are received and coordinated by the dispatchers. This includes the monitoring of 12,000 alarms within campus buildings and Medical Center facilities. The Communication Center functions similar to a 9-1-1 dispatch center and Emergency Operating Center. We serve as the “nerve center” of emergency preparedness and operations. Click here to view the Security Camera Policy.
From umbrella coverage requests to emergency assistance due to illness, injury or criminal activity, the dispatchers handle calls for police, security and public safety services. Calls are received on any of the campus-wide Emergency Phones, or directly on the emergency telephone number (123) or TTY (124) for those hearing impaired. In addition, the University Dispatchers coordinate responses with the Chicago Police and Fire Departments. The dispatchers are the link between the students, faculty, and staff requiring police or public safety services.
The Communications personnel receive and handle service related calls and emergency assistance requests from residents living within the University of Chicago Police Department area of authority. In addition, UCPD co-responds with CPD to all crime calls which occur in the neighborhoods we patrol. The Emergency Phones throughout the community go directly to the Communications Center and are handled there. We provide a link for emergency assistance to all community members and visitors.
Security Services is the electronic protection component of the University Police mission to provide a safe and secure academic environment in order for the University of Chicago to pursue its vision and mission.
Security Systems includes closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance in high-risk areas, access control of University buildings, and duress alarm enunciation. This is done through the integration of effective security systems in existing campus spaces and in the base design of new and newly-renovated spaces.
To provide these systems on campus, the Security Systems team meets with vendors that offer cutting-edge solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the University of Chicago's campus. The University consults in the design of these projects and once implemented, closely watches their performance. Furthermore, the University keeps watch of emerging technologies in this field so that systems can be continually improved and updated.
